Alternative Names

How the test is performed

Usually, the health care provider checks for glucose in the urine sample using a dipstick made with a color-sensitive pad. The pad contains chemicals that react with glucose. The color that the dipstick changes tells the provider how much glucose is in your urine.

How to prepare for the test

Your health care provider may tell you to stop taking drugs that may affect the results of the test.

Drugs that may increase urine glucose measurements include:

Aminosalicylic acid

Cephalosporins

Chloral hydrate

Chloramphenicol

Dextrothyroxine

Diazoxide

Diuretics (loop and thiazides)

Estrogens

Ifosfamide

Isoniazid

Levodopa

Lithium

Nafcillin

Nalidixic acid

Nicotinic acid (large doses)

Other drugs also can cause false negative or false positive results, depending on the type of test strip used. Talk to your doctor.

How the test will feel

The test involves only normal urination, and there is no discomfort.

Why the test is performed

This test is most commonly used to screen for diabetes.

Normal Values

Glucose is not usually found in urine. If it is, further testing is needed.

What abnormal results mean

Greater than normal levels of glucose may be a sign of:

Diabetes mellitus

Glucose release from the kidneys into the urine (renal glycosuria)

Pregnancy

Note: Results may vary slightly among different laboratories. Talk to your doctor about the meaning of your specific test results.

Information developed by A.D.A.M., Inc. regarding tests and test results may not directly correspond with information provided by UCSF Medical Center. Please discuss with your doctor any questions or concerns you may have.